Easy Slow Cooker Beef Chili

Ah, chili. That warm, hearty bowl of comfort that somehow manages to taste even better when the weather starts turning crisp. Enter Easy Slow Cooker Beef Chili, a recipe that’s as fuss-free as it is delicious. It’s perfect for those days when you’d rather wrap yourself in a blanket than labor over the stove. And, well, with a busy schedule and a daughter who keeps me on my toes, those days are pretty frequent around here.

I’ll never forget my first attempt at slow cooker chili. I thought I’d just toss everything in, press a button, and voilà! Turns out, there’s a bit more to it than that, but the result? Totally worth it. The scent that fills your kitchen as it simmers all day is like a warm hug—one that’s very forgiving if you forget about it for an extra hour or two. Plus, coming home to a dinner that’s already done? It’s like winning a little weekday lottery.

Easy Slow Cooker Beef Chili is all about comfort and ease. It’s a savory, hearty blend of tender ground beef, robust tomatoes, and creamy beans, all perfectly spiced with chili powder, cumin, and a hint of heat from cayenne. It’s thick, rich, and has that satisfying “stick-to-your-ribs” quality that makes you feel like you’re eating something far more complex than what actually came out of your trusty slow cooker.

This chili leans more towards the all-American comfort food vibe. It’s the kind of dish you’ll find at game-day tailgates, cozy family dinners, and, let’s be honest, it’s always the star at a potluck. And unlike those elaborate, many-layered chilis that demand hours of your time, this one keeps things simple without sacrificing flavor.

Easy Slow Cooker Beef Chili

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There’s nothing better than the smell of chili being made throughout the day. Thanks to your slow cooker, this beef chili is easy, flavorful, and just what you need to warm up after a long day.

• Author: Addie Gundry
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 8-10
• Category: Soups

Ingredients

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (16-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (16-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato juice
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• Shredded cheese and crackers, for serving

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet, combine the ground beef, onion, bell pepper, and garlic and cook over medium-high heat until the meat is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Transfer the mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker and add the chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, tomato juice, and tomato sauce to the slow cooker. Stir to combine. Cover and cook on Low for 7 to 8 hours.
4. Ladle into bowls and serve warm, topped with cheese and crackers.

Want to take this comforting slow-cooker chili even further? Here are some tasty ways to personalize, pair, and enjoy it that turn every spoonful into something memorable:

1. Mix Up the Beans & Veggies
Try swapping in black beans, cannellini beans, or even a trio for extra texture and color. Feel free to toss in chunky diced sweet potatoes or roasted butternut squash for sweet warmth–perfect for making this chili even heartier and more nutritious.

2. Elevate with Toppings & Mix-Ins
Sure, shredded cheese and crackers are classic–but why stop there? Add a dollop of sour cream or tangy Greek yogurt, a handful of chopped cilantro, or slices of ripe avocado for creaminess and bright flavor. A squeeze of lime adds refreshing zip, while chopped green onions or jalapeños bring a welcome crunch or kick.

3. Spice & Season to Your Taste
Craving more heat? Stir in a dash of chipotle powder, a spoonful of smoky roasted chilies, or even a bit of your favorite hot sauce. For smoky depth, swirl in a teaspoon of cocoa powder or a splash of Worcestershire sauce–it may sound odd, but the flavor payoff is real.

4. Make It a Meal
This chili works great on its own–but why not turn it into dinner on a plate? Serve it over fluffy rice, scoop it atop baked sweet potatoes, or ladle it over buttered cornbread or creamy polenta for comforting variation.

5. Freezing & Leftover Tips
Chili is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze in meal-sized portions for quick, cozy meals later on.

So there you have it—Easy Slow Cooker Beef Chili, the ultimate no-fuss comfort food that’s sure to become a staple in your home. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly night or need a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, this recipe’s got your back. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out in the comments. I’d love to hear what toppings you choose (team shredded cheese, anyone?) or if you have any secret tweaks of your own!